FORMER Kilkenny star Walter Walsh is to make his debut for Leinster Rugby's junior team after returning to his second sport post-retirement. Still only 33, he called time on his inter-county hurling career in November. In the intervening six months he's thrown himself back into rugby for the first time in around 15 years. Speaking at the launch of the Bord Gáis Energy GAA Legends Tour Series of Croke Park for 2025, the three-time All-Ireland winner explained how he'd initially gone back playing with New Ross RFC. Always a towering presence on the hurling pitch, he made a similarly hefty impact at that level which then caught the eye of someone in the Leinster set-up. Explaining what is the realisation of a long-held sporting dream, he said: “I'm doing a bit with Leinster juniors now. “They gave me a phone call there two weeks ago. They have inter-provincials, kind of a seven-week block. "So they play Ulster, Connacht and Munster. “They're picking a panel now so I've been training with that team the last week really. It's something completely different. "I got to pull on a Leinster jersey last week and it's nice. "I played a bit, we played the Defence Forces in a game and it's something I always wanted to do, pull on the Leinster jersey. “I've been playing rugby since I was five years of age. "Obviously, I had a 15-year break between when I was 18 and 33 last year when I got to play again. "I didn't think I'd ever get to put on one (a Leinster jersey). But I did and that was nice for me.” CAME A LYNG WAY Upon hanging up his black and amber jersey, Cats boss Derek Lyng paid him a heartfelt tribute for his impact on and off the pitch. Lyng said: “It’s been an honour to have worked with Walter. "His towering presence both on and off the field has inspired many young hurlers and his attitude, drive and leadership has been immense. "Walter leaves us with many great memories and I wish him well in his retirement.” Kilkenny GAA chairman PJ Kenny added: “On behalf of Kilkenny County Board and all associated with Kilkenny hurling, I would like to thank Walter for his commitment and his contributions to Kilkenny hurling over the last 13 years. "Throughout his career, Walter represented his club and county with distinction and we wish Walter the very best for the future.” After making his senior debut in 2012 aged 21, he won eight Leinster titles, four National League titles and three All-Ireland titles, as well as an All-Star in 2016.